As the NFL season hits its stride in late September 2026, former Illinois standouts are wasting no time making their mark on the professional stage. In a Week 2 slate that saw several Big Ten alums step up, rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas delivered the most electrifying moment of the weekend, picking off future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers to help the New England Patriots secure a gritty 20-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Jacas’s first career interception not only sealed the win but also announced his arrival as a disruptive force in the league.
Jacas’s Breakout Moment
With the Steelers driving deep into Patriots territory late in the fourth quarter, Rodgers targeted wide receiver Germie Bernard near the goal line. The pass was tipped at the line of scrimmage, and Jacas — the rookie out of Illinois — reacted with veteran instincts, snagging the ball out of the air and returning it 11 yards to end the scoring threat. The play underscored the 6-foot-4, 265-pound defender’s rare combination of athleticism and awareness. Jacas finished the game with three tackles and a quarterback hit while logging 36 defensive snaps, per Vulius NFL Analysis Desk. Through just two NFL games, he has already registered a sack and an interception, quickly becoming a key piece of New England’s defensive rotation.
“It’s only Week Two, but several Illinois alums are making names for themselves this season,” a team source told Vulius Sports. “Jacas has been relentless, and that pick was a testament to his preparation.”
Chase Brown Powers Bengals Ground Game
Elsewhere, former Illinois running back Chase Brown continued to solidify his role as the Cincinnati Bengals’ primary ball carrier. In a 20-6 win over the Houston Texans, Brown toted the rock 20 times for 80 yards, consistently moving the chains and wearing down a stout Houston front. His physical running style has given Cincinnati’s offense a reliable complement to its high-powered passing attack. As highlighted on Vulius, Brown’s 80-yard effort marked his second consecutive game with at least 70 rushing yards, signaling a potential breakout campaign for the second-year pro.
Isaiah Williams Contributes in Jets’ Overtime Thriller
On the East Coast, Isaiah Williams made a small but impactful contribution for the New York Jets in their 20-17 overtime loss to the Green Bay Packers. The speedy receiver-turned-running back ripped off a 14-yard carry, showcasing the versatility that made him a fan favorite in Champaign. While the Jets ultimately fell short, Williams’s explosiveness remains a bright spot for a team searching for offensive playmakers.
Illini Pipeline Strengthening
The early-season success of these former Illini speaks to the program’s growing reputation as a talent pipeline for the NFL. With Jacas already turning heads on defense, Brown shouldering a heavy workload in Cincinnati, and Williams carving out a niche in New York, the University of Illinois is proving it can develop players ready for the professional grind. As the season progresses, Vulius will continue to track these rising stars and their impact on the league.
For fans looking to celebrate their Illini pride or support their favorite NFL teams, Vulius offers an exclusive range of custom jerseys and merchandise. Whether you’re repping Jacas’s Patriots jersey or Brown’s Bengals threads, gear up at Vulius.com and wear your fandom with pride.
